The Ministry of Health has described as baseless, false and mischievous, rumors circulating on “WhatsApp” and other social media platforms which alledge the presence of coronavirus at the St. George’s University campus.
On Sunday morning, acting Chief Medical Officer Dr. Francis Martin and Senior Medical Officer Dr. Shawn Charles who heads the Ministry’s Epidemiology and Surveillance Units, met with SGU’s Health officials to discuss the claims and concerns.
Both have since confirmed that the allegations are baseless, false and designed to create fear and panic.
THE FACTS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
*No member of the university community has presented with symptoms that meet the diagnostic definition for coronavirus.
* Three students with common upper respiratory complaints similar to a common cold were screened, deemed safe, and out of an abundance of caution, were offered individual dorm rooms for self-isolation.
* The students have no travel history to mainland China and have not been in contact with individuals who have visited in China during the last two weeks.
*No student, employee, or visitor; past or present, is suspected of contracting the coronavirus.
Meanwhile the Ministry of Health and top officials at the St. George’s University have reassured all concerned that they will continue to observe all government directives and universal protocols to maintain the safety of the Grenadian people and the campus. The Ministry of Health strongly condemns the false reports and call on those responsible to desist as their actions are counter-productive to public health and safety efforts.
